PMID: 19938416Nov 27, 2009Paper

Rheumatoid arthritis (updated Current Care guideline)

Duodecim; lääketieteellinen aikakauskirja
Markku HakalaSuomalaisen Lääkäriseuran Duodecimin ja Suomen Reumatologisen Yhdistyksen Asettama Työryhmä

Abstract

Anti-citrulline antibodies are highly specific to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are thus helpful in differential diagnosis. Early and aggressive disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) therapy is essential for a positive treatment result in cases of RA. Remission during the 1st year of treatment predicts permanent remission, milder joint damage and better functional ability. It is recommended that patients with an unsatisfactory response to DMARDs, including methotrexate and a combination of DMARDs, should be treated primarily with TNF blockers, and non-responders with rituximab or abatacept. RA is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The assessment of cardiovascular risk must not be forgotten in daily practice.

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